At least five applicants have collapsed during the ongoing Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.
Reports indicate that one person is in critical condition and receiving treatment at the Emena Hospital in the Oforikrom Municipality, while four others are being treated at the Ashanti South Government Hospital.
To prevent further incidents, National Security officers have directed the Ghana National Fire Service to supply water to applicants at the stadium. Additionally, some candidates have been asked to return on Thursday and Friday to ease congestion and avert a possible stampede.
Meanwhile, in Accra, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has confirmed six deaths following a stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, during a similar recruitment exercise.
Initial reports suggested 12 fatalities, but the GAF later clarified that six deaths had been confirmed. According to the military, 28 individuals were taken to the 37 Military Hospital, where six were pronounced dead, five remain in intensive care, and 12 others are in stable but critical condition.
Authorities have attributed the tragic incidents in both Kumasi and Accra to overcrowding and disorganized scenes as thousands of job seekers rushed to secure enlistment amid the country’s rising unemployment.
The Ghana Armed Forces has since suspended the ongoing recruitment exercise at the El-Wak Sports Stadium until further notice.
